1. Dynasty rule is not healthy in God’s Work

A conducive atmosphere did not help them. Even though they were raised by the High Priest! They were in the Tabernacle every day

There was abuse of the role. 1 Samuel 2:15-17.

Abuse of the place and people. 1 Samuel 2:22

these men not only took advantage of God they took advantage of the weak women in the community.

2. Failure of the Spiritual leader – father

Eli failed to have a positive influence on his sons Hophni & Phinehas.

Eli let it go. Their Father had not instilled a sense of respect and awe for God in these men as children.

Our occupation should not preoccupy us to take us away from family bonding and responsibility.

Children left to themselves are a danger to themselves & others. Proverbs 19:18

Discipline your children while there is still hope! Without discipline children can destroy themselves!

It was too late when Eli spoke to the children.

1 Samuel 2:15-18 – Eli’s response was not firm.

As great a man Eli actually participated in his son’s behavior.

1 Samuel 2:29 – Eli was passive and rationalized their behavior.

Don’t empower them to do wrong. Do not rationalize wrong behavior, and thereby become part of the problem. Eating meat that was stolen from the Alter of God cannot be compromised.

Failure to restrain the children is equal to participation.

3. Dishonouring God in worship is serious before God.

2:17-“Therefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD, for men abhorred the offering of the LORD.”

God does not approve indiscipline in His sanctuary. 1 Samuel 2:23-25 –

Indiscipline invites judgment.

1 Samuel 3:12-14 – God sends a message through Samuel.

Curse is absence of God’s Blessing.

4. You can honour god even in adverse situation.

Samuel made the difference in a place where God was dishonoured

He worshiped God. And he worshiped the Lord there. I Samuel 1:28

He grew up in the presence of God the boy Samuel grew up in the presence of the Lord. 2:21

He served God. The boy ministered before the Lord under Eli the priest. 2:11 But Samuel was ministering before the Lord 2:18

He listened to God 1 Samuel 3:1-10

He honoured God – .”The Lord was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of his words fall to the ground. 1 Samuel 3:19

God honored him too. I Samuel 3:20-21

Conclusion

Samuel did not learn a lesson from history
When Samuel grew old, he appointed his sons as judges for Israel. 1 Samuel 8:1
But his sons did not walk in his ways. They turned aside after dishonest gain and accepted bribes and perverted justice. 1 Samuel 8:3